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Jul 282025
 

‘Older’ Susannah comes out of ‘retirement’ to focus on ‘Abermoaners’, Trump and ‘Money to Burn’. By Suzanne Kelly.

Tally Ho! It’s been a while; years in fact. And now that Fred Wilkinson has decided to revive Aberdeen Voice online news, it would be rude not to write a quick column.

I’m older, no doubt. I’ve got the beginnings of osteoarthritis, and now have a substance abuse problem involving Voltarol and aspirin. The eyes are getting a bit cloudy too.

But these minor inconveniences are just reminders of what a short time I’ve got, we’ve all got here.

Onwards, upwards.

On a personal note, as it’s been such a long time. A night at a Soft White Underbelly show in late May was a recent highlight I’ll not forget during the downtime from Aberdeen Voice.

The crowd was wonderful; people sang every line; the band was brilliant. It reminded me of what my US teenage years were like.

We came and went as we pleased; we drank from age 18; there wasn’t a school shooting or mass shooting event; no school shooting drills. ICE agents didn’t walk up to me or my friends, who happily were from many different backgrounds, kidnap us and send us to prison camps or foreign torture camps.

Pseudo-Christian evangelical types didn’t come up to us on the beach and demand we cover up while sunbathing. If a girl needed medical care – she got it without the State deciding what she could or could not do with her body. If someone rich or poor was a multiple felon or a sexual assaulter, they were shunned.

We had fun, we went a bit wild. There were bike runs to secret Soft White Underbelly gigs (Blue Oyster Cult’s underground name), and their recent London date reminded me how important music is, how much freedom we had back then, and how much is being taken away. I want all that freedom back for myself and everyone.

I don’t dare fly to the States. People get arrested at the border if they have too much luggage, no luggage, satirical pictures of the president and vice president. I hope Americans take their freedom back. Soon. And I hope the UK will stop pandering to dictators the world over.

I hope we can choose better allies and help civilians against whom wars are waged – while it’s possible.

Music has taught me a hell of a lot about freedom, protest, social problems.

If you like a band, an artist, support them. Time’s short, and as the ‘Prince of Darkness‘ passing has taught us, this is not a dress rehearsal. I’ll be remembering great artists when they pack me off to a nursing home; I’ll be singing ‘Out on the Tiles’, ‘Warpigs’, ‘Then Came the Last Days of May’ and ‘Comfortably Numb (Body Count version)’ to myself as the meds kick in. But now, normal services resume while I’m still kicking. Time to move on to the satire and definitions.

Building on this success, President Donald J Trump is in town,

After all, there is so much to celebrate. Where to start…. The council promised us that a revamp of Union Terrace Gardens from its former dingy, grassy, tree-filled Victorian status to something smart and successful would lead the revival of the high street.

Some cynics thought that building brand new tram-shed style shops to open yards away from the closed and closing shops of Union Street, thereby creating more competition wasn’t a great idea. But the council insisted they had people on waiting lists to rent space in these lovely glass sheds, which blend in so naturally to their granite neighbours.

And it only cost £28 million, give or take.

Building on this success, President Donald J Trump is in town, enjoying the success of his Menie Estate golf course, which has been every bit as successful as the UTG revamp. Menie Estate residents don’t mind being barred from their homes for a couple of days while security forces, helicopters, police, US government personnel swarm to protect The Donald.

If only they had had this kind of presence when he was doing his speech and was shot in the ear.

No wonder he was billed by a US navy doctor as ‘the healthiest president ever’ – despite being nicked in the ear by a bullet from a high-powered rifle, an event which for anyone else would have been traumatising, deafening, concussion-inducing, bloodletting, he defiantly fist-pumped the air, paused for a few pictures, and has healed so completely, you would almost think he was never shot.

I did promise Fred I’d keep this first column down in size, so without further ado, here are some definitions based on current events in the Deen and wider world.

Incinerator: (noun) An apparatus for burning waste material, especially industrial waste, at high temperatures until it is reduced to ash.

Spare a thought for Torry residents and Aberdeen taxpayers, the eagerly-awaited, beautiful, iconic, Tullos incinerator is going down in flames. Or not.

Ones hopes of spewing plumes of gases from domestic and industrial waste over the nearby school, homes and remaining bits of green space have gone up in smoke. Heated arguments between two companies involved in the operation have led to closure.

“The Ness Energy from Waste (EfW) facility, has been abruptly shut down” – Aberdeen Business News.

Some call the whole plan a failure; I disagree. The city has burned through £150 million of taxpayer’s money. Result!

Now some people don’t see this gorgeous building and its minor pollution production (well when it worked) and its price tag as being the success it clearly is. If like Torry resident and campaigner Ishbel Shand, you called this vibrant, iconic facility as:

“A grotesque building, squatting in our community like a great cockroach, and converting non-renewable natural resources into toxic ash and carbon dioxide.

“It is a malign symbol of the rampant consumerism that is destroying our planet. This isn’t energy from waste – it exists to waste energy. How on earth did this ever become acceptable?”

I have bad news for you. You just might be an…

Abermoaner: (noun) Anyone who says something critical of Aberdeen City Council or Aberdeen Inspired.

This wonderful word was coined by the wonderful influential people at the Chamber of Commerce, to whom Aberdonians owe thanks for helping to put the city in the position it’s currently in. Used in a column in the P&J by one Colin Farquhar, it’s a reminder that there’s nothing to complain about and if you do, it automatically means you hate Aberdeen.

If you don’t think the state of Union Street reflects the millions poured into Aberdeen Inspired both by the levy payers and taxpayers, you’re an Abermoaner. If you think that Teca, which is worth £75 million less today than when it was built was a great idea, hosting as it does bingo nights and the ‘Hot Wheels Stunt Show’, you’re an Abermoaner.

Against bus gates? Abermoaner.

Worried about the massive black hole at the centre of the city’s finances? Abermoaner.

Not happy about how the people in Torry who bought their RAAC-riddled homes were treated – yes, you guessed it – you’re an Abermoaner. So be more like the little Farquhar, who wrote:

“Even if it isn’t perfect – and what place or thing truly is – it’s vitally important that we present a vision of success and strength. What’s the alternative?

“Being dour, depressed and despondent, broadcasting Aberdoom, will only lead to projecting that feeling to others. They may otherwise visit our beautiful city, spend their hard-earned money here, or even decide to return or live and work here.”

I mean, who needs reality?

Sadly, there are actually people who think it is OK to be critical of the city and to go as far as to express it. They can be found in this Facebook group – ‘‘Council Watch – The Home for Abermoanians’, in case anyone is minded to go and tell them about all the advantages the city has.

Just don’t talk about the fact that many buildings the council owns are being allowed to deteriorate and some may need demolition. That’d be moaning.

Next time, a look at the joyous arrival of President Donald Trump into Aberdeen, and a round up of the warm welcome he is bound to receive.

It’s not every day a convicted multiple felon who’s destroyed two SSSI sites, who threw a spanner in Aberdeenshire’s offshore wind farm, a convicted sexual offender who is building concentration camps and throwing in anyone ICE can catch comes to visit.

I’m sure you feel as excited about it as I do.

Jul 272025
 

By Suzanne Kelly.

On 25 July, former Aberdeenshire councillor Debra Storr was arrested by police for creating a chalk hopscotch board with the message “Trump is a C*nt”, alongside the late Janey Godley’s initials inside a heart shape.

Police reportedly hesitated before making the arrest — an act that many see as disproportionate and likely in breach of Ms Storr’s rights under the European Convention on Human Rights specifically, her right to freedom of expression.

She was charged under Section 38 of the Criminal Justice and Licensing (Scotland) Act 2010, a law usually reserved for threatening or abusive behaviour likely to cause fear or alarm.

Debra told Aberdeen Voice:

“You’d have to have a fragile sensibility to find this abusive. It’s not threatening. It’s political expression — about one individual — and how I feel about him, given the environmental destruction at Menie, his presidency, and his clear belief that laws and taxes are for other people.”

The image of the late comedian Janey Godley holding a placard reading “Trump is a C*nt” during a previous anti-Trump protest became a viral internet sensation, and is often circulated online in its unedited form.

Ms Storr explained her chalk design was a tribute to Godley:

“She can’t protest herself any longer, but she certainly struck a chord.”

Despite Trump’s current visit being private, roads have been closed, residents restricted from accessing their homes, and a significant police presence deployed to the Menie estate. Officers are reportedly being drafted in from England and Northern Ireland.

Storr has been banned from the estate until her court date on 22 August.

Protests at Menie and in Aberdeen city centre were well attended.

Storr was one of the councillors who voted against Trump’s original golf course plans — a project that promised thousands of jobs and an economic boom. Instead, the course has operated at a loss and resulted in the irreversible destruction of two Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs).

Jul 292023
 

Craig Chisholm reviews Belle and Sebastian at the Beach Ballroom, Aberdeen.

As the lights dimmed and the anticipatory murmurs of the crowd filled the air, a wave of excitement washed over the audience, as the intro tape of ‘The Northern Lights of Old Aberdeen’ rang out signalling the arrival of the beloved indie pop legends, Belle and Sebastian.

Hailing from Glasgow, Scotland, this legendary group has been enchanting listeners with their whimsical melodies and heartfelt lyrics for over two decades.

Tonight, at The Beach Ballroom, they promised to take us on a magical journey through their extensive discography. And without a doubt, they delivered.

From the moment the band stepped on stage, their infectious energy and undeniable charisma filled the room.

Led by the enigmatic Stuart Murdoch, the lead vocalist and frontman, Belle and Sebastian commanded the stage with grace and charm. Murdoch’s distinct voice, simultaneously soothing and evocative, resonated with every word sung, drawing the audience closer into their world.

The setlist was a carefully curated selection of old favourites and newer tracks, showcasing the band’s versatility and evolution over the years.

Opening with the iconic Dog On Wheels they immediately transported us back to the early days of their career, when their tender melodies first captured our hearts. The crowd erupted in cheers and applause, singing along to every word, displaying an unwavering devotion to the band’s music.

Throughout the performance, Belle and Sebastian effortlessly transitioned from soft and introspective ballads like to joyous, upbeat anthems.

The band’s ability to create an intimate atmosphere in a larger venue was remarkable. Each song felt like a personal conversation, a heartfelt exchange between the band and their adoring fans.

The musicianship displayed by Belle and Sebastian was nothing short of exceptional.

The band members, all talented instrumentalists, demonstrated their mastery of their respective instruments, creating lush soundscapes that enveloped the Ballroom. The seamless interplay between the delicate strings, the whimsical keys, and the vibrant brass sections added depth and richness to their already captivating compositions.

But what truly set this performance apart was the palpable connection between the band and the audience.

Stuart Murdoch, in his charismatic and humble manner, engaged with the crowd, sharing anecdotes about his Dad singing The Northern Lights of Old Aberdeen after a few drinks, having a personal and humorous chat with a gig goer originally from Battlefield in Glasgow, and inviting sing-alongs.

The fans reciprocated by dancing, swaying, and clapping in unison, transforming the venue into a jubilant celebration of music and community.

Fan favourite The Boy With The Arab Strap even drew a small stage invasion from Stuart’s sister and companions and the support band, Drug Store Romeos, who danced away whilst the band played.

As the concert drew to a close, the crowd erupted into thunderous applause, demanding an encore. Belle and Sebastian graciously obliged.

The evening concluded with their timeless classic, Lazy Line Painter Jane leaving a lasting impression and a sense of pure contentment in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to witness this remarkable performance.

In the end, Belle and Sebastian proved once again why they remain an indelible force in indie pop music. Their ability to captivate and transport listeners through their melodies and storytelling is a testament to their artistry and enduring appeal.

Their debut live performance at The Beach Ballroom was nothing short of magical, reminding us why we fell in love with their music in the first place.

Belle and Sebastian continue to defy time, inviting us to embrace the beauty and wonder of their musical world.

Setlist :

Dog on Wheels
I’m a Cuckoo
So in the Moment
Young and Stupid
If She Wants Me
When You’re Not With Me
Unnecessary Drama
Slow Graffiti
If You’re Feeling Sinister
Like Dylan in the Movies
Funny Little Frog
Sukie in the Graveyard
The Wrong Girl
Simple Things
The Boy With the Arab Strap
I Didn’t See It Coming
Sleep the Clock Around

Encore:

Another Sunny Day
Lazy Line Painter Jane

Jul 272023
 

Craig Chisholm reviews The Pet Shop Boys at P&J Live, Aberdeen.

The Pet Shop Boys took the stage at P&J Live, Aberdeen on their ‘Dreamworld – The Greatest Hits Tour’ with an electrifying energy that captivated the audience from the very first note.
As one of the most iconic synth-pop duos in music history, Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe demonstrated why they continue to be a force to be reckoned with even after decades in the industry.

From the moment the lights dimmed, and the euphoric synths and uplifting piano motif of Suburbia reverberated through the venue, it was evident that the Pet Shop Boys were here to deliver an unforgettable show.

The stage was adorned with a visually stunning backdrop, modified street lamps and giant screens featuring a combination of vibrant visuals and retro-inspired graphics that perfectly complemented their unique musical style.

Neil Tennant’s distinctive voice filled the air, effortlessly transporting the crowd back to the 80s and 90s, while Chris Lowe worked his magic behind his keyboard, creating a symphony of synth sounds that defined the era.

The chemistry between the two musicians was palpable, as they seamlessly blended their talents to create a mesmerizing sonic experience.

The setlist was a carefully curated journey through their extensive discography, incorporating both their timeless classics and some of their newer material.

Hits like Go West, It’s a Sin, and Always on My Mind had the entire crowd on their feet, singing along with an infectious enthusiasm.

One of the highlights of the concert was the incorporation of stunning multimedia elements. A dazzling display of lights, lasers, and mesmerizing visuals transformed the stage into a kaleidoscope of colours, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the performance.

The synchronization between the visuals and the music was impeccable, further immersing the audience in the Pet Shop Boys’ artistic vision.

But it wasn’t just the audio and visual spectacle that made the concert memorable; it was also the intimate connection established between the band and their fans.

Neil Tennant’s engaging banter between songs created an atmosphere of warmth and familiarity, making the audience feel like they were part of an exclusive gathering of die-hard fans. This personal touch added a sense of authenticity and genuine appreciation for their loyal supporters.

As the concert drew to a close, they encored with an exhilarating rendition of classic West End Girls, and the more melancholic Being Boring the crowd erupted into a thunderous applause, unwilling to let the evening end.

The Pet Shop Boys had delivered a concert experience that was as entertaining as it was nostalgic, reminding everyone why their music continues to resonate with generations of fans.

In summary, the Pet Shop Boys in concert was an absolute triumph. With their impeccable musicianship, stunning visuals, and infectious energy, they delivered a synth-pop extravaganza that left a lasting impression. It was a celebration of their remarkable career, and a testament to their enduring legacy in the world of music.

Setlist:

Suburbia
Can You Forgive Her?
Opportunities (Let’s Make Lots of Money)
Where the Streets Have No Name (I Can’t Take My Eyes Off You)
Rent
I Don’t Know What You Want but I Can’t Give It Any More
So Hard
Left to My Own Devices
Single-Bilingual / Se a vida é (That’s the Way Life Is)
Domino Dancing
Monkey Business
New York City Boy
Jealousy
Love Comes Quickly
Paninaro(Paninaro ’95 version)
You Were Always on My Mind
Dreamland
Heart
What Have I Done to Deserve This?
It’s Alright
Vocal
Go West
It’s a Sin

Encore:

West End Girls
Being Boring

Apr 052023
 

The Comet is Coming, the London-based experimental jazz trio, electrified the stage and lit up the late winter darkness at the Aberdeen Lemon Tree with their cosmic sounds and captivating performance. Craig Chisholm reviews.

The show started with the pulsating energy of stunning openers, Code and Summon The Fire, and that immediately drew the audience in as the group’s saxophonist Shabaka Hutchings (AKA King Shabaka), drummer Max ‘Betamax’ Hallett, and keyboardist Dan ‘Danalogue’ Leavers brought a fusion of spiritual jazz, cosmic funk, and electronica to the stage.

The trio’s improvisational style, coupled with their futuristic aesthetic, transported the audience to another dimension.

With intricate saxophone riffs, hypnotic drum patterns, and mesmerizing keyboard melodies, The Comet is Coming delivered a spellbinding performance that left the audience in awe.

Throughout the concert, the band showcased their eclectic range of influences, from Sun Ra’s space jazz to the cosmic funk of Parliament-Funkadelic, infusing each track with their unique sound. The audience was swept up in the band’s infectious energy, dancing and swaying to the pulsating rhythms.

Highlights of the show included the frenzied energy of aforementioned

Summon the Fire, Blood of the Past, Pyramids, and the driving funk of Final Eclipse.

The group’s dynamic stage presence, with each member contributing their own unique flair, kept the audience engaged and entertained from start to finish.

Overall, The Comet is Coming’s performance at Aberdeen Lemon Tree was a stunning showcase of their innovative sound and captivating stage presence.

The audience was left mesmerized by the trio’s cosmic sounds, and it was clear that the group’s experimental approach to jazz is pushing the boundaries of the genre in exciting new directions.

Gig of the year? In March? Quite possibly…..

Apr 052023
 

Lead singer Aaron Starkie’s powerful vocals were a standout feature of the show.

Craig Chisholm reviews The Slow Readers Club at the Lemon Tree, Aberdeen.

The Slow Readers Club made a long overdue trip to Aberdeen Lemon Tree in support of their latest Top 40 album, Knowledge Freedom Power.
From start to finish, the band put on an impressive and energetic show that had the entire audience captivated.

The Manchester band opened with the new album’s first track, Modernise, which set the tone for the rest of the performance.

The band’s unique blend of indie rock and electronic music was on full display, and their sound filled the venue with a powerful energy that kept the audience engaged throughout the night.

Lead singer Aaron Starkie’s powerful vocals were a standout feature of the show, as he effortlessly belted out the band’s lyrics with passion and emotion. The other members of the band were equally impressive, with their tight musicianship and expertly executed arrangements.

The setlist included some of the band’s biggest hits, such as Plant the Seed and On the TV, as well as some newer material that showcased their evolving sound. Aaron Starkie also engaged with the crowd, creating an inclusive and celebratory atmosphere.

The lighting and stage design complemented the music perfectly, creating a visually stunning show that was both immersive and engaging. The sound quality was also excellent, with every instrument and vocal perfectly balanced.

Overall, The Slow Readers Club put on an outstanding performance at the Aberdeen Lemon Tree. They delivered an impressive show that was both sonically and visually captivating, leaving the audience wanting more.

Anyone who enjoys indie rock or electronic music should definitely make an effort to see this band live, especially when they support indie legends the Pixies in select UK dates.

Set List:

Modernise
Fool For Your Philosophy
All I Hear
The Greatest Escape
The Wait
How Could You Know
Plant the Seed
Everything I Own
Forever in Your Debt
Jericho
Afterlife
You Opened Up My Heart
Lay Your Troubles on Me
On The TV
Feet on Fire

Encore:

I Saw a Ghost
Wanted Much More
Knowledge Freedom Power
Lunatic

 

Apr 052023
 

Craig Chisholm reviews ‘Suede’ live at Aberdeen Music Hall.

Suede, the legendary Britpop band, recently took the stage at Aberdeen Music Hall, and the audience was treated to a night of electrifying rock and roll.

The band, fronted by the charismatic Brett Anderson, proved that they are still at the top of their game and capable of delivering a powerful performance.

The setlist was a carefully curated mix of old classics and new material from recent album, Autofiction, with the band playing fan favourites such as Animal Nitrate, Trash, and a barnstorming encore of Beautiful Ones, as well as newer tracks like Personality Disorder and She Still Leads Me On.

Add in early B-side, Killing of a Flashboy, and you had a set that spanned the band’s entire career.

The crowd sang along to every word and danced the night away to the infectious beats and catchy hooks.

Anderson’s voice was in fine form, effortlessly hitting every note with his signature falsetto, which was particularly evident when he performed a solo acoustic version of The Wild Ones from their classic album, Dog Man Star.

The rest of the band was tight and polished, delivering a high-energy performance that left the audience begging for more. The guitar work was particularly impressive, with Richard Oakes and Neil Codling trading solos and creating a wall of sound that filled the entire venue.

Simon Gilbert and Mat Osman (brother of TV presenter and author Richard Osman) anchored the maelstrom with a solid backbone of drums and bass respectively.

The stage setup was minimalistic and stark, with a simple backdrop and lighting that perfectly complemented the music without distracting from it. The sound quality was excellent, with every instrument and vocal perfectly balanced and crystal clear.

Overall, Suede’s performance at Aberdeen Music Hall was a triumph, showcasing the band’s enduring talent and ability to captivate audiences with their unique brand of Britpop. The concert was a memorable night that left fans buzzing and eagerly anticipating the band’s next tour.

This was the band’s first time back in Aberdeen for nearly 25 years (and only their third ever) – you hope, given the reception at this sold-out show, that they come back sooner rather than later.

Setlist :

Turn Off Your Brain and Yell
Personality Disorder
15 Again
We Are the Pigs
Animal Nitrate
Trash
Killing of a Flashboy
Sleeping Pills
Down
The Only Way I Can Love You
She Still Leads Me On
Shadow Self
It Starts and Ends With You
The Wild Ones
That Boy on the Stage
So Young
Metal Mickey
New Generation

Encore:

Beautiful Ones

Feb 022023
 

With thanks to Alba Party Press.

Local by-election candidate Charlie Abel, pictured with ALBA Party leader Alex Salmond

Charlie Abel, ALBA candidate for the upcoming local by-election in Dyce, Bucksburn and Danestone, has taken Aberdeen City Council to task over their lack of preparedness for the current icy conditions.
Speaking with ALBA Party leader Alex Salmond, Mr Abel made the point about the dangerous icy walkway by the Don alongside Riverview Drive.

According to the ALBA candidate, it was no better in the housing estates nearby with parts of Gallowhill Terrace like an ice rink.

Mr Abel went on to say:

“The walking conditions are treacherous due to the ice, but look around. The council have not provided grit bins.

“It is time the council started caring for this area and the safety of its residents. Grit and grit bins are basic requirements at this time of year and there is no excuse for not providing them.”

Mr Abel, well known as accordian player in popular local ceilidh band, Iron Broo, has already put his audio-visual skills to good use in the creation of a campaign video podcast on local issues.

Alex Salmond commented:

“Charlie is a natural as a candidate and would make a great local councillor.

“He probably gets his campaigning verve from being a performer with local ceilidh band IRON BROO and as his podcast videos show he has his ear to the ground in local issues”

You can watch the podcasts here.

 

 

Feb 022023
 

Craig Chisholm reviews Mogwai plus support, Rev Magnetic at The Music Hall, Aberdeen.

With Idlewild playing down the road at the OGV Taproom and The Dons entertaining one of the Glasgow teams at Pittodrie (in a game best not talked about after a rather unpleasant ending), it’s pleasing to see a healthily packed Music Hall watch the wonderful Mogwai start a short run of dates before Christmas.

Opening the nights proceedings are Glasgow based Rev Magnetic, who are fronted by the multitalented, multi-instrumentalist and vocalist, the Orkney and Blairgowrie raised Luke Sutherland.

Not only is he the Rev Magnetic frontman but he’s a published author, former band leader of acclaimed 90s band Long Fin Killie and occasional Mogwai touring member.

The band deliver a 40-minute set of experimental avant-post-rock infused with pop hooks, jarring silences and folk influences that recalls bands such as near namesakes Mercury Rev at their most dream-like and the exploratory guitar work of Loop and My Bloody Valentine.

Sutherland’s congenial, friendly between song banter seems to win over a crowd that may not be familiar with the band or their 2019 album ‘Versus Universe’.

Hopefully they make it up to the Granite City again soon.

Headliners Mogwai are no strangers to Aberdeen having made their debut at the Lemon Tree 25 years ago.

“Hello, we’re Mogwai from Glasgow, it’s good to be back in Aberdeen” states frontman Stuart Braithwaite as the band take the stage.

Opening with the live debut of recent single (and, interestingly, non-album track) ‘Boltfor’, the band plunge straight into a hypnotic and hallucinatory set that features a mere 3 tracks their recent UK no.1 album ‘As the Love Continues’ and delves deep into their now extensive back catalogue.

Between song chat is minimal, kept to the odd “thanks” or similar display of appreciation. However, that’s a positive as unnecessary between song banter could break the spell that the band’s music induces.

The aforementioned Luke Sutherland makes a guest appearance during the seasonal appropriately named ‘Xmas Steps’ adding layers of violin to the band’s guitar heavy sound.

Vocal tracks, such as ‘Ritchie Sacramento’ and ‘Hunted By a Freak’, are rare, offering a different shade to the atmospherics of the instrumentals.
Closing with the epic 20-minute piece ‘My Father, My King’, which is based on the melody to a Jewish prayer, the band exit to a deafening cacophony of feedback and adulation from an adoring crowd.

A towering performance by one of the greatest bands Scotland has to offer – and much more fun than the entertainment at Pittodrie on the same night.

Mogwai Setlist:
I’m Jim Morrison, I’m Dead
How to Be a Werewolf
Hunted by a Freak
Party in the Dark
Don’t Believe the Fife
Drive the Nail
Christmas Steps
Old Poisons
Ceiling Granny
Remurdered
Ratts of the Capital

Encore:
Ritchie Sacramento
My Father, My King

Rev Magnetic Setlist:
Versus Universe
Like No Girl That Ever Was
Lip Gloss
Sunny Windy Winter Morning (Rainbows Spanning the Valley)
Gregor
La Haut
Don’t Let Joy Destroy You
Palaces

Dec 172022
 

Business Improvement District entity Aberdeen Inspired kept a lid on its finances – until now. Suzanne Kelly writes.

Businesses in the BID area pay 1% of rateable value to Aberdeen City Council. Aberdeen Inspired invoices ACC for salaries, the levy, and schemes ranging from lacklustre to hare-brained.

AI’s website boasts “…we will try our best to answer any queries and engage with our audience…”. In reality AI blocked many from its social media and won’t answer Freedom Of Information requests.

Happily, a FOI to Aberdeen City Council about an AI scheme resulted in 80 invoices and 200 pages of emails being released.

These show AI invoicing ACC for the Christmas village (ACC contributing £165k in 2019 and £180k in 2018), an annual mural event (£100k pa), and more. These events are nice enough – but they do not seem to be saving businesses from folding.

The released invoices total nearly £3 million including VAT, but don’t cover all AI’s activities. Inspired invoiced the city a total of £1.6 million for the levy across these invoices – the true total is likely to be higher.

Two winners from the BID scheme were AI’s City Centre Manager and its Night Time & Eveniing Economy Manager, trousering £47k and £20k respectively per annum. What do they and AI do to earn their cash?

AI Chief Executive Adrian Watson, a retired police officer, boasted the 2018 Christmas market welcomed 631k visitors. When questioned on the absurdly-high figures, Watson said they used an external company to track footfall.

Had even a fraction of such a crowd visited nearby John Lewis and other shops, perhaps JL and other business would still be here.

During lockdown AI spent £80k on wooden ‘parklets’ (aka benches). Some were vandalized; all have since been removed in a huge waste of materials.

Many BID levy payers were shocked when it emerged £400k of central government money went on a scheme for illuminated street signs.

The 12 signs can only be read from one direction, they experience failures, and are often left switched off.

The company awarded the work (apparently with no tender exercise held) was an English firm that has since gone bankrupt.
How this was meant to help local businesses remains a mystery.

What’s the impact on retailers and hospitality of these follies plus a gift card scheme AI charged £15k to launch, £30k on a ‘place-based investment fund,’ and £6.4k for seagull nest and egg removal? Businesses are leaving in droves.

From the departure of John Lewis, potential pull-out of Marks & Spencer through to the closure of beloved restaurants, pubs and small shops, the millions AI spent have had no measurable positive impact.

Don’t assume though that Inspired don’t know how to economise. In 2015 it invited musicians to audition to play for free at the Christmas village where they could ‘pass the hat around in the usual manner.’